Central neurocytoma presenting with gigantism: case report

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Endocrinology
• Pediatric Endocrinology

Background:

• Central neurocytomas are typically slow-growing tumors found in the lateral ventricles.
• Gigantism is a rare condition characterized by excessive growth, usually caused by a pituitary adenoma secreting growth hormone.

Observation:

• A 19-year-old male presented with a two-year history of rapid growth consistent with gigantism.
• Computed tomography identified a calcified tumor in the septal region.
• Preoperative growth hormone levels were elevated at 20.7 ng/mL, decreasing to 0.9 ng/mL postoperatively.

Findings:

• The resected tumor was confirmed as a central neurocytoma.
• Tumor cells cultured in vitro demonstrated low-level production of growth hormone releasing factor.
• The patient did not exhibit pituitary dysfunction before or after treatment.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare presentation of central neurocytoma causing gigantism through ectopic growth hormone releasing factor production.
• It underscores the importance of considering non-pituitary tumors in the differential diagnosis of gigantism.
• Successful management involved surgical resection and radiotherapy, leading to hormonal normalization.